Sheffield United star is challenged to make it impossible for England not to pick him

After reverting to a back three for the recent Nations League ties against Iceland and Denmark, Southgate is being urged to consider granting O’Connell an audition on the left hand side of the Three Lions’ defence following his performances at Premier League level last term.

Speaking ahead of Monday’s meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers - United’s first assignment of the new campaign - Wilder added his voice to those calls; challenging the 26-year-old to leave Southgate with no option but to award him a first senior cap.

“One hundred per cent, that’s something he should aim for,” Wilder replied, when asked if O’Connell can force his way into Southtgate’s plans. “The great thing that’s happened through the last two or three years is that our players have been getting international recognition. We’ve got seven or eight going away with their national teams, which we applaud and support.

“They are playing in the Premier League. They should all be aiming to play as well as they possibly can to attract the attention of their national managers. Whether it’s Jack, John Lundstram or even George (Baldock) playing for Greece, which is something which might be on the horizon.”

Despite missing nearly all of United’s preparation programme, O’Connell will start against Wolves if he proves his fitness over the weekend. The Liverpudlian was forced to self isolate, under the terms of the UK’s Covid-19 guidelines, for two weeks before resuming training earlier this month. Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale is also set to feature, having returned to South Yorkshire following three years with AFC Bournemouth, while fellow new signings Oliver Burke, Jayden Bogle, Max Lowe and Ethan Ampadu are also likely to feature in Wilder’s matchday squad.

“Whatever position it is, they should all be looking to impress their national managers if they’re not already in there,” Wilder said. “I’ve spoken about Ramsdale, for example, with Gareth - who has maintained he should be talked about in that group of ‘keepers looking to go forward with England.

“I’m sure the manager (Southgate) doesn’t just favour the big teams. I know he looks at every player in the league and if he feels they can add something to his group, then he’ll make that decision.

“So basically, to Jack and everyone else, play well and then see what happens after that.”

United finished ninth in the table last season while Wolves came seventh.

“It’s going to be a tough game, they done brilliant last time out - as did my lads,” Wilder said. “I’ve got a lot of respect for them and their manager and they’ve brought some really good lads in.”

“The thing is, I also reckon we’re stronger too,” he added. “I think our group, as we set out to achieve, is better than the one that started last season. That was the aim and I’m pleased with the business we’ve been able to do.”

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